Introduction
Unethical behaviour permeates all levels of business, manifesting itself through individuals who shout about ethics from platforms while secretly disregarding them in practice. Cheating is often seen as a strategic advantage in a world intensely focused on winning. However, this mentality not only compromises the integrity of individuals but damages the organisations as a whole.
It must be acknowledged that everyone makes mistakes—sometimes significant ones that are unintentional. However, there are those who consistently exist within a win-lose mindset, bending or breaking rules to ensure their victory. This behaviour creates a culture of mistrust and resentment, as others witness the success of those crossing lines without facing consequences.
Operations can suffer from unethical practices. Signing off reports or work that has not been completed or using inconsistent standards for individuals based on personal preferences create an unfair workplace, further feeding the intensity of unethical behaviour. The ethical dilemmas multiply when individuals are coerced with threats or promised benefits for engaging in inappropriate favours, leaving a shadow of unethical power dynamics.
Do not emulate unethical people
A primary piece of advice is straightforward – do not emulate unethical individuals. Engaging in corrupt practices, even in response to witnessing others do so, can lead a person down a path of moral decay and legal ramifications. There are many people in organisations, from board level to lower levels that seek unethical advantages. Such interactions can tarnish reputations and careers, and many organisations have strict policies against such ethical transgressions.
The advice to not emulate unethical individuals is particularly pertinent. When surrounded by people who engage in morally questionable practices, it is easy to justify similar behaviour as a survival strategy. However, engaging in unethical conduct only compounds the problem and can lead to serious legal and reputational risks. Moreover, choosing not to follow those practices protects one’s reputation and career in the long run.
If there is an obvious violation or if there is a legal imperative, report it
If anyone witnesses clear violations or illegal actions, reporting them is essential. The fear of personal repercussions should never outweigh the obligation to maintain a truthful environment. The consequences of remaining silent can be far worse than any immediate fallout. Awareness of wrongdoing coupled with inaction can breed a culture of complicity and fear.
The importance of reporting unethical behaviour is emphasised. Fear of retaliation or personal consequences often discourages individuals from speaking out, but silence can be just as damaging as the unethical actions themselves. Failing to report misconduct not only perpetuates a toxic culture but can also lead to personal complicity. Taking action, even when it’s difficult, is essential for maintaining a truthful and accountable environment. By addressing unethical behaviour, employees can help create an atmosphere where integrity is prioritised, and bad practices are less likely to flourish.
If there is an opportunity, advise the person to change behaviour.
When dealing with ambiguous situations where unethical behaviour is not overtly visible, it is crucial to proceed with caution. Documenting instances of questionable conduct before taking action can provide a solid foundation for dialogue. It is also worthwhile to advise those engaging in unethical behaviour to consider changing their actions – especially if they are individuals you know and respect.
Be able to discern “mistakes” from intentional patterns
Learning to distinguish between honest mistakes and deliberate misconduct can save one from misjudgement. The intent of workplace behaviour should be assessed. Most intuition allows us to sense whether an action was genuinely a mistake or motivated by a pattern of intentional wrongdoing.
Navigating such situations with integrity is not easy, especially when unethical behaviour appears to be rewarded. However, it is crucial to maintain a commitment to ethical principles. Choosing to adhere to a higher standard may sometimes result in losses – whether it is missed deals or strained relationships – but it also safeguards personal integrity and contributes to a healthier, more sustainable business culture.
Employers and individual employees will always have to deal with unethical people to one degree or another.
The leadership lessons are abundantly clear: the employer, manager and employees will encounter unethical people throughout their careers, and their responses matter. It is the manager / supervisor and employees that set the tone for a team, and their actions influence both the manager’s direct reports and those observing from afar. Ignoring unethical behaviour does not create a stronger leader; rather, committing to integrity and ensuring accountability fosters respect and a healthy work environment
This reflection underscores the significant role that leadership plays in shaping an organisation’s ethical culture. Leaders have the power to influence the behaviour of their teams and to establish standards for acceptable conduct. Ethical leadership, which involves modelling integrity, enforcing accountability, and ensuring transparency, can inspire loyalty, trust, and higher performance levels from employees. Leaders who neglect their responsibility to foster an ethical culture risk damaging their organisation’s long-term reputation and success.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this reflection serves as a powerful reminder for business leaders and professionals to uphold ethical principles, even in the face of pressure to “win at all costs.” Integrity is not just a personal value; it is a critical business asset that helps build trust, strengthen relationships, and contribute to the long-term health and success of the organisation.
What is the lesson?
Ultimately, the guiding principle should always be to do what is right. A commitment to ethical behaviour not only preserves personal integrity but also leads to a more robust, honest, and cooperative business environment.
